This month, the American Red Cross of Utah announced that as part of Wildfire Awareness Month (May) and for the rest of the summer, it would offer free basic home wildfire risk assessments at during visits to install free smoke alarms.

Jeremiah Lafranca, executive director of the Greater Salt Lake Chapter of the American Red Cross, told the Standard-Examiner Wednesday that the program stems from a massive increase in wildfire damage across the state.

“We’ve seen a dramatic increase in wildfires over the past few years,” he said. “In Utah alone, we had 165,000 acres that burned in 2025, which is more than 2022-2024 combined. When we’re seeing those kinds of numbers, we want to make sure that people are prepared and they know what to do in the situation. Really, our initiative is focused on giving education to people to think about their properties and what they can do to make their homes safe if a wildfire does occur in their area.”

According to the press release, the assessments will give an overview of the property and education.

“The home visit will include guidance on creating defensible space by clearing flammable vegetation, dry leaves, debris and other materials near homes that could fuel a wildfire,” the release said. “Volunteers will also share home fire safety information, review escape plans with residents and install free smoke alarms in households that need them.”

Lafranca said the assessments have been offered for a few years and will be offered throughout the remainder of the summer.

He added that the wildfire assessments are largely aimed at certain types of properties.

“We definitely recommend them for anybody that’s in the urban interface — if you’re kind of on the outskirts of the city where you’re more towards that mountains or you’re out towards areas where there could be brush fires,” he said. “That’s where we want to raise the awareness the most. Obviously, if you’re in downtown West Valley City, it’s not as urgent as, maybe, a rural area.”

Lafranca said the program is ultimately about mitigating the risk of wildfires.

“We want to make sure that people take steps, not only before wildfire season, but think about how to help prevent them,” he said.

The Red Cross of Utah press release lists several tips to prepare for wildfire season, including:

• “Create defensible space by clearing dry brush, leaves, pine needles and overgrown vegetation from around the home, and store firewood at least 30 feet away from the house.
• Trim trees and thin brush near the home to reduce fuel that can help a wildfire spread.
• Remove stored items from under decks, porches and outdoor stairways.
• Repair or replace missing roof shingles or tiles that could allow embers to enter.
• Cover exterior vents with metal mesh to help keep windblown embers out of attics and crawl spaces.
• Clearly mark driveways and house numbers so firefighters can find the property quickly.
• Identify an outdoor water source, such as a pond, pool or spigot, with a hose that can reach all areas of the property.”

Additionally, the release offers tips to prevent wildfires, including:

• “Check local fire restrictions before lighting a campfire, using a fire pit, burning debris or grilling with charcoal.
• Do not drive or park on dry grass or tall weeds. Use paved areas or designated roads when possible.
• Secure trailer chains so they do not drag and check tires and brakes before driving through dry areas.
• Avoid mowing on windy or very dry days. Mow early in the day and avoid dry weeds, dry grass or rocky areas where blades can spark.
• Never leave a campfire, fire pit or grill unattended, and make sure flames, coals and ashes are completely out before leaving.Clear dry grass, weeds and leaves from around propane tanks and gasoline storage containers.”

During a wildfire:

• “Monitor local media and emergency alerts for updates.
• Reduce smoke exposure by closing windows and doors and staying indoors when it is safe to do so.
• If evacuation is ordered, leave immediately and go to a pre-identified safe location.”

For more information and to schedule an assessment, visit soundthealarm.org/utah